West Bromwich Albion stars back Sandwell sports grants

WBA players Youssouf Mulumbu and Thievy Bifouma met Sandwell Council's leisure boss Councillor Paul Moore to unveil a new grant scheme to encourage more people to play sport.

Cllr Moore said: “Sports clubs play a major role in helping people young and old stay fit and healthy. This money can be used for host of reasons to boost participation in sports across Sandwell.

"I urge sports clubs from across the borough to get in touch and tell us how they want to use this money to get more people in Sandwell active.”

The scheme will run for 12 months and applications will be assessed by a panel of councillors, council officers, voluntary sector representatives and local partners.

The first round of entries will take place from 1 April to 30 June and the maximum grant available is £500.

Rob Lake, Albion Foundation director, said: "It's fantastic news that the council are making this funding available for sports clubs. Sandwell's clubs have been waiting a long time for an opportunity like this and I know it will be well received."

For more information about the scheme and applications visit www.sandwell.gov.uk/cashforclubs or phone 0121 569 3467.